New Digital Competence Course for Teachers: Preparing Educators for the Challenges of the 21st Century
At the turn of the 21st century, digital literacy has become one of the key prerequisites for high-quality and effective education. The dynamic development of new technologies, artificial intelligence, online collaboration, and digital communication significantly shapes not only students’ daily lives but also the demands placed on pedagogy itself. In response to these changes, the European Academy of Education (EAV) has introduced a new course of digital competence for teachers – an initiative that seeks to prepare educators for the constantly evolving requirements of the digital age.
Reflecting Modern Needs in Teacher Training
The importance of digital competencies for teachers is documented by numerous educational studies and analyses. According to Eurostat, up to 85% of all jobs in Europe require at least basic digital skills. In the Czech Republic, the Ministry of Education (MŠMT) has identified digital literacy development as a strategic priority up to 2030. However, school practice shows that the ability to effectively use digital technologies in teaching varies greatly among teachers. The aim of our new program is to systematically address this disparity and ensure that every teacher is ready to offer students modern and meaningful education.
Comprehensive Curriculum and Practical Applications
The structure of the new course is built on a modular principle that covers the full spectrum of digital competencies. The introductory blocks focus on basic digital security, working with online tools for lesson planning and communication, and understanding ethical aspects of digital space. Subsequent modules emphasize practical use: from managing interactive whiteboards and cloud platforms, to creating digital educational content, and using AI for personalized student support.
A significant part of the course is dedicated to critical thinking and digital information literacy – essential for orienting oneself in the flood of online information and teaching students the basics of fact-checking and responsible network behavior.
Learning by Doing and Effective Support
A unique feature of the course is its strong emphasis on interactive learning. Teachers do not passively absorb content but immediately try out new procedures in the security of the learning environment. Real model lessons, creation of digital materials, simulations of hybrid teaching, and collaborative projects promote the transfer of knowledge into practice. Each participant can count on individual support from lecturers who have years of experience with digital transformation in education.
The course is accessible both in person and remotely as an online module, allowing teachers to adapt their professional development to their personal needs and work schedule. This flexibility responds to the modern trend of lifelong learning and supports teacher motivation for continuous self-development.
Preparation for the Future: Certificate and Sustainable Impact
At the end of the course, graduates receive a certificate, confirming their acquired skills and enhancing their value in the job market. Just as our workshops for electricians or IT laboratories reflect the needs of the practical world, so too does this digital course respond to the urgent demand for qualified educators capable of educating the next generation for success in a digital society.
By introducing this course, we are strengthening the role of school as a center of innovation and facilitator of practical change. We believe that only teachers who feel confident in the digital world can inspire students and support them in responsible and creative use of technologies.
Vision and Continuity
The development of digital competencies is not a one-time project, but a long-term commitment. At EAV, we perceive the training of digitally literate teachers as a fundamental pillar of future-oriented school. Through cooperation with experts, companies, and international projects, we will continuously enrich our courses with the latest trends and tools, so that our educators and their students never lag behind technological development.
The new digital competence course is another step on our journey to modern, open, and high-quality education. We are proud to offer our teachers the opportunity for professional growth that reflects the real needs of the 21st century. Together, we are building a school where innovation is not a cliché, but a real part of everyday life.
PhDr. Pavel Bartoš, LL.M., DBA (Evropská akademie vzdělávání / European Academy of education)
Leave a Reply